Acute or chronic pain as a result of excessive stress is a frequent complaint in runners. This pain can be caused by a range of abnormalities such as joint deformity, muscular imbalance, coordination defects and pathomechanical movement sequences. In such cases, only very specific therapy, which is able to give an exact diagnosis, will suffice.

Not only can running analysis be of merit in rehabilitation, but it also plays a role in the prevention of injury. It can assist in the identification of functional problems in gym apparatus and in establishing appropriate rehabilitation techniques for athletes. As a result, pain can be alleviated and excessive mechanical stress can also be averted, before it leads to chronic or intense medical conditions.

The examination has been pioneering in the clear identification of causality, particularly when pain first appears. The naked eye can only detect limited information so certain details often elude observation, particularly during high speed movements. A thorough analysis therefore requires detailed methods of examination through video recording. For this reason, high speed techniques are used for the detection of biomechanical parameters in every phase of movement, and therefore enable the identification of the cause of injury.

These findings can lead to well-directed rehabilitation and training programme recommendations, correct choice of footwear or the optimal suitability of functional insoles.

Aktysis offers an immediate indication of joint angles or other parameter on the video live-stream allowing quick feedback to patients. Instantaneous results are a significant feature of this software as Aktisys delivers real-time results. It is both easy to operate and affordable.

Running Analysis Protocol- Sagital

Protocol sagital running analyses track joint angles for the ankle, knee, hip and upper-body. This is done fully automatically in real time and requires the use of 5 markers which are placed on the fore foot, ankle, knee, trochanter and shoulder. The report displays the ranges of motion, joint angle/time graphs, measurements for specific phases and the dynamic changes in the transference of weight.

Analysis Protocol- Frontal

When analysing in the frontal plane, 5 markers are also used. These are placed anteriorly on the ankle joint, the origin of the patella ligament, on both the left and right anterior superior iliac crests and in line with the height of the T6 vertebrae. This allows for the measurement of valgus and varus movement at the knee, lateral hip tilt, and deviations of the upper-body from the midline. Information regarding initial contact, maximum knee flexion and toe off can also be calculated when reviewing results with the patient. The report automatically shows joint angles as well as the respective video image for key time points. Angle/time graphs can also be generated for each joint, which provide an overview of joint movement and the opportunity to determine joint angles at any stage of the cycle.

Tests such as frontal gait analysis, frontal running analysis, step down tests, leg axis stability testsand many more can be conducted automatically for immediate patient feedback. Aktisys is a good software for physical therapists for rehabilitation and return to sports assessments.